Yoga For Beginners

Yoga has been recognised worldwide as one of the most effective ways to calm your mind and relax your body. It not only helps lift you into a cloud of zen but it helps muscle tension and flexibility. Anyone can do yoga from young to old and the more practise you have, the easier it becomes and the more your body gets used to it. Whether you're a beginner or a pro, yoga is a great way to take a moment out of your day to focus on your body and your breathing. So mio caught up wtith the wonderful yogi Maria Kelly to give you 5 of the best yoga positions for beginners.

Child's Pose

Childs Pose - a grounding restful pose that has a soothing effect on the brain. Here the feet, ankles and legs are stretched whilst hips are gently encouraged to open and the spine lengthened. This pose is perfect for those days when you're physically tired but the mind is still busy. Stay here for a few minutes to feel the full benefits.

Downward Facing Dog

Downward Dog - practising downward facing dog regularly will help to elongate and lengthen the spine benefiting the central nervous system. This posture also stretches the backs of the legs. Whilst strengthening the arms and shoulders.

High Lunge Pose

High Lunge Pose - Stretches and tones the legs. It lengthens the spine and stretches the chest muscles making it easier to take deeper breathes increasing lung capacity and stamina. It can help relieve sciatica.

Mountain Pose

Mountain Pose - the most important pose for all beginners to practice. Mountain pose improves posture by creating an awareness of unhealthy postural habits. It helps to strengthen the legs, bum and abdomen which creates better stability and balance. Standing tall opens the chest muscles encouraging deeper breathing which calms the mind.

Triangle Pose

Triangle pose - when performed this yoga pose increases mobility in the hip joints. Lengthens the spine and tones the legs, stimulates the flow of blood through the entire body improving cell growth and internal organ function this encourages healthy skin and aids digestion. Proprioception (spacial awareness)  is also experienced along with an increased sense of balance.